My Graham
ancestor of interest, Mary
Elizabeth Graham, was probably born between 1790-1795. Her eldest
child, Graham Ross, was probably born between 1810-1815. Attempts to
trace Mary's ancestry have proven fruitless. Early parish records for
Ardstraw were lost in 1922. Surviving records date to the 1840s (Church
of Ireland) & the late 1830s (Presbyterian). Such BMD records that
survive prior to the 1830s come from gravestone inscriptions, family
records and secular records (wills, land records, etc). Given that
there were several Graham families in Ardstraw parish itself and
townlands bordering on Ardstraw, that Graham is one of the more common
Irish surnames (especially in Co Tyrone) and that Mary is perhaps the
most common female forename in Ireland, the chance of identifying
Mary's parents is likely non-existent. Charted below are the Graham
families of Ardstraw parish & surrounding townlands in the parishes
bordering the eastern half of Ardstraw parish. Mary presumably was a
member of one of these families. Mary named her (known) children
Graham, Isabella, Mary, Robert & Margaret. Robert appears in her
husband's family so may have come from that side. Isabella is otherwise
unknown in her husband's family and Margaret is rare, suggesting both
of those names may have come from Mary's family. The names of all of
Mary's children (apart from Graham) all occur (and suggestively, only occur)
amongst the Graham's of Cavanalee townland in Camus parish, bordering
Ardstraw to the north. A branch of the Cavanalee Graham's did settle in
Straletterdallan townland in Ardstraw in the late 1800s, less than 2
miles from where Mary's husband was living in the early 1800s.

In
addition to the families charted below there are traces of other Graham
families who lived in the area, but for whom insufficient records are
available to establish a family tree. One of the most interesting of
these elusive families were Graham's living in Beltany townland in the
far north of Cappagh parish. In 1666 a John Graham was listed in the
Hearth Money Roll for Beltany in the parish of Ardstraw.[50] John was
the only Graham listed in Ardstraw parish (which evidently at the time
included what is now northern Cappagh). In the 1827 Tithe Applotment
Book for Cappagh parish, a Samuel Grames [Graham] appears in
Beltany.[29] In the 1860 Griffith's Valuation for Cappagh parish,
William Graham appears in Beltany townland and James Graham appears in
the neighbouring townland of Lislap West.[8] The 1796 Flax List for
Capagh parish contains Ephraim, James & Robert Graham, who have not
been accounted for.[28] Was one of these the father of Samuel? Possibly
James since there is a James in the generation after Samuel. A Denis
Graham appears in Drumnahoe townland, in the central north of Ardstraw
parish, in 1850 (Hamilton Rent Books[9] and again in 1858
(Griffith's[8]). I have found no further trace of this individual. A
cursory view of census & other records suggests that Denis was
predominately a Catholic forename, at least amongst Graham's in Co
Tyrone. All the Graham families charted below were protestant.

This family appears in the far west of Ardstraw parish, on the border
with Co Donegal. Whilst living at the opposite side of Ardstraw parish
from Newtownstewart (where my Mary Graham could be found after she
married), this family are the only Graham's of Ardstraw parish who can
be traced in the parish from the 1700s into the 20th century. An Arthur
Graham died Ballyfolliard townland in 1740, leaving a will. Possibly a
grandfather of James, below? James was possibly the son of the John
Graham who appeared in the 1796 Flax list, receiving 4 spinning wheels
(ie: growing between 4-5 acres of flax). James named a son John. The
only other Graham unaccounted for in the Flax List was William, a name
that does not appear amongst the Ballyfolliard until the 3rd generation
after James.

Robert
Graham,[4] probably born between 1790-1810. Died between 1833-1849.
Listed in 1833 Tithe Applotment Book for Ardstraw parish, Co Tyrone,
Ireland.[4] Married Eliza.[8] {Eliza is presumably the Widow Graham listed as a tenant in Ballyfolliard in 1849 &listed by name in the 1859 & 1860 Griffiths Valuations for Ballyfolliard. Of the threeadult male Graham's living in Ballyfolliard in 1833, one was still alive in 1860, anotherwould have been in his 90s in 1860, leaving Robert as the probable spouse of Eliza} In
1859 & 1860 Eliza was leasing Block No.9a, Ballyfolliard
townland, Ardstraw parish, Co Tyrone from the Marquis of Abercorn,
comprising a house, out-buildings & land covering 23 acres & 3
rood with an annual rateable valuation of £12 15s for the land and £1
10s for the house (total £14 5s).[8] In 1859 & 1860 leased Block
No.9b, Ballyfolliard townland, Ardstraw
parish, Co Tyrone to Elizabeth Meehan, comprising a house with an
annual rateable valuation of 5s.[8] Resided 1833, Ballyfolliard
townland, Ardstraw parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[4] Widow Graham resided,
1849, Ballyfolliard townland, Ardstraw parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[9]
Eliza resided, 1859, 1860, Ballyfolliard townland, Ardstraw parish, Co
Tyrone, Ireland.[8]

William Graham, born 1851, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[5] Presbyterian, single & literate, 1911.[5] Died
3/7/1912, Ballyfolliard townland, Ardstraw parish, Co Tyrone,
Ireland.[10] "Probate of the Will of William Graham late of
Ballyfolliard County Tyrone Farmer who died 3/7/1912 granted at
Londonderry to John James Fyffe and John James Scott Farmers,
29/8/1912, effects valued at £1,125 16s. 11d."[10] {John
James Fyffe married Ann Jane Graham, 9/1/1894, Ardstraw parish, Co
Tyrone. Ann d/o William Graham.[3] The identity of Ann and &
William is unknown. William, above, does not appear to have married
according to the census records, yet John James was the co-executor of
William's will suggesting a close relationship, such as a son-in-law.
John James from Derrygoon, Castlederg, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[3]}
Farmer, 1887, 1888, 1901, 1911, 1912.[5,10,38] Presbyterian, literate
& single, 1901.[38] In 1888 was executor of the will of William
Crawford of Carnkenny townland, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[10] Resided
1887,1888, Ballyfolliard townland, Ardstraw parish, Co Tyrone,
Ireland.[10] Resided, 1901, with father, Ballyfolliard townland,
Listymore district, Ardstraw parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[38] Resided,
1911, house No.7, Ballyfolliard townland, Listymore district, Ardstraw
parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[5] Living with him was Joseph (38yo) &
Jane (57yo) McElhill, both servants & both Roman Catholic.[5]
Resided 1912, Ballyfolliard townland, Ardstraw parish, Co Tyrone,
Ireland.[10]

Whilst arriving in Ardstraw parish (and possibly Co Tyrone) most likely
in the mid to late 1860s & so having no likely connection with any
of the other Graham families charted here, this family settled in the
same area that my ancestor, Mary Graham, lived, half a century earlier.

Carnkenny townland is about 3 miles due west of Newtownstewart, about
midway between Newtownstewart & Ballyfolliard. Immediately to the
north is Ardstraw townland and to the east is Milltown townland. The
forename Andrew is common amongst the Graham's of Cappagh &
Drumragh parishes as well as the Graham's of Cavanlee, Camus parish,
although all of those families tended to be Presbyterian for the most
part. There is no trace of this family in the 1911 census.

There are no Graham's listed in the 1796 Flax List for Lower Bodoney
(or Lower Badoney as it is sometimes spelt). This of course does not
mean there were no Graham's in the parish, only that there were none
growing more than 1 acre of flax. It is, however, suggestive that there
were several Graham's listed in the 1796 Flax List for neighbouring
Upper Bodoney, including James, John & Thomas, all names appearing
amongst the family that appears in Lower Bodoney in the 1800s. By the
1850s, the only Graham family living in Upper Bodoney was a recent
arrival from Co Monaghan via England. Trinamadan townland does border
Upper Bodoney parish. Trinamadan townland lies to the north of the
parish town of Gortin, Rylands is to the west.

William Knox.[10] Died 10/12/1896, Garvagh townland, Lower Bodoney parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[10]
"The Will of William Knox late of Garvagh Gortin County Tyrone National
School Teacher who died 10/12/1896 was proved at Londonderry by The
Reverend Adam Whyte of Gortin Presbyterian Minister and Samuel
M'Farlane of Drumaduff Farmer both said County the Executors, 8/2/1897,
effects valued at £142 19s."[10]

John James Graham,[3] probably born between 1825-1845. Died
1/9/1887, Rylands townland, Lower Bodoney parish, Co Tyrone,
Ireland.[10] "Letters of Administration of the personal estate of John
James Graham late of Rylands County Tyrone Farmer who died 1/9/1887 at
same place were granted at Londonderry to David Graham of Rylands
Farmer the Brother, 25/10/1887, effects valued at £121 10s."[10]
Farmer, 1887.[10] Married Catherine Scott.[3] Resided 1887, Rylands townland, Lower Bodoney parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[10]

This family arrived in Co Tyrone in the 1830s or 1840s from Co
Monaghan, settling in Upper Bodoney parish, bordering Ardstraw parish
to the east. All of the family appears to have emigrated to Australia
& the USA in the mid to late 1800s.

1.
Andrew Graham, born 1797, Monaghan, Co Monaghan, Ireland.[11] Died
30/11/1876, North & South Lislea townland, Upper Bodoney parish, Co
Tyrone, Ireland.[11] Andrew served in the British army prior to
settling in Ireland.[11] In 1859 was leasing Block No.12a, North &
South Lislea townland, Upper Bodoney parish, Co Tyrone from Charles
John Gardiner, comprising a house & land covering 1 acres & 30
perches with an annual rateable valuation of 10s for the land and 10s
for the house (total £1).[8] Married
Jane Wilcox.[11] Jane born/baptised 23/12/1810, Cheltenham, London,
Endland.[11] Resided 1859,1876, North & South Lislea townland,
Upper Bodoney parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[8,11]

Children of Andrew Graham & Jane Wilcox:

i.

Andrew
Graham,[11] born 1827.[54] Died 23/9/1912, Queensland, Australia.[12]
In 1859 was leasing Block No.7a, Dergbrough townland, Upper Bodoney
parish, Co Tyrone from James Moorhead, comprising a house & garden
covering 10 perches with an annual rateable valuation of 2s for the
land and 8s for the house (total 10s).[8] Married
Sarah McTaggart.[12,54] Sarah born 1835.[12] Resided 1859, Dergbrough
townland, Upper Bodoney parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[8] Emigrated to
Queensland, Australia,[11,54] arriving 13/10/1863 on the
'Rockhampton'.[54]

Two Graham families were living in northern Drumragh parish in the
area bordering Ardstraw parish, one in Dunwish townland and the other
in Gillgooly, both townlands bordering Ardstraw parish. Other Graham
families could be found in the south of the parish as well as possibly
three families living in Omagh, which lies in both Drumragh &
Cappagh parishes. I have been unable to obtain a copy of the 1830 Tithe
Applotment for Drumragh parish which would help tie in the early 1800s
generation with those appearing in the 1796 Flax List. I assume the
William in the 1796 Flax list was the father of John (1.1), who named
his eldest known son, William.

1. William Graham,[28] probably born between 1750-1775. {From DOB of son} In 1796 was growing at least 1 acre of flax, listed in the Spinning Wheel Bounty.[28] Married unknown. Resided 1796, Drumragh parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[28]

This family first appears in Gillygooly townland, remaining there
as recently as 1911. A branch of the family settled in nearby Kilmore
parish. Whilst John Graham of Dunwish townland was leasing 24 acres of
land in Kilmore in 1860, near the home of James Graham, s/o Benjamin,
there is no obvious connection between the two families - the Dunwish
Graham's appear to have been fairly well off, leasing not only sizable
farms where they lived but also other properties whilst the Gillygooly
Graham's were labourers, only leasing the homes they lived in. In 1833
a
Benjamin Graham was leasing land in Rakelly townland, Ardstraw
& resided in Dublin Street, Newtownstewart, Ardstraw parish, Co
Tyrone, Ireland.[4] On 1/11/1829 Benjamin Graham, a farmer,
entered into a lease for "three lives or 31 years" for land in
Newtownstewart.[39] {This probably refers to the townland of Newtownstewartand not the town itself, the former is immediately to the south}

1.1. Benjamin Graham,[2,3] born between 1800-1810. In 1860 was
leasing Block No.3d, Gillygooly townland, Drumragh parish, Co Tyrone
from William Smith Jr, comprising the 'waste of [the] mill pond' and a
house, covering 2 rood & 20 perches with an annual rateable
valuation of 10s for the house (the land had no valuation).[8] Married unknown. Resided 1860, Gillygooly townland, Drumragh parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[8]

James Graham,[3] born 1832, Drumragh parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[2,3] {According to [3] may have been born in Kilmore townland but this may have been as assumption based on his son living there} In
1860 was leasing Block No.3b, Kilmore townland, Drumragh parish, Co
Tyrone from John Ramsay, comprising a house with an annual rateable
valuation of 5s.[8] Married
Isabella Maghan, 15/12/1854, Gillygooly townland, Drumragh parish, Co
Tyrone, Ireland.[2,3] James s/o Benjamin, Isabella, born 1836, d/o
Samuel Maghan.[2] Resided 1860, Kilmore townland, Drumragh parish,
Co Tyrone, Ireland.[8]

1.1.1. Mitchell Graham,[3] born about 1830, Drumragh parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[3] {According
to [3] may have been born in Kilmore or Corlea townlands. [3] also
gives a DOD of 9/6/1942 which is obviously incorrect given the DOB} Married 1st Eliza.[3] Married 2nd Mary Ann Anderson, c.1865.

There appear to have been two lines of John Graham's in the
Mountjoy area, Cappagh parish, through the 1700s into the 1800s, one in
Castletown townland and the other in Gortnacreagh & Mountjoy West
townlands. Despite sharing the surname, being in the same area and both
having a preference for using the forename John, there is probably no
near connection between the two families. The Castletown Graham's had
modestly sized farms whilst the Gortnacreagh Graham's were considerably
more wealthy, having one of the most expensive home in the district and
by the 1870s owning a sizable swath of land. Sproule Graham, born
c.1840, has been claimed to have been the son of John of Gortnacreagh
by some researchers. Sproule's father was indeed a John Graham,
although which is is more debatable. Sproule did claim to be an
'esquire' when he married, but he emigrated to New Zealand in the
following decade as an assisted passenger. Even if Sproule had
squandered his inherited wealth, the Gortnacreagh Graham's were wealthy
enough that it is doubtful he would have been able to secure government
assistance for his passage. John of Gortnacreagh was also born 1769 and
his oldest known children were born shortly after 1800, when he
married. John had only one wife (from the biography of his son, John
Sr) so it is doubtful, even impossible, that John could have had a son
born as late as 1840. John's son, John Jr, was born in the 1820s and
never married. Much more likely is that Sproule belongs to the
Castletown Graham's and he exaggerated his station upon his marriage
(which occurred in another parish). St Eugene's, Mountjoy, was the
parish church for Cappagh (despite Omagh, which partly lies in Cappagh,
being a sizable town & having churches of its own). Consequently
births giving "Mountjoy" as the location, especially approximations,
may refer to the location of the parish church and not the actual abode.

1.1. John Graham,[29] probably born between 1770-1780. {From DOB of son
& not listed in 1796 Flax List} Died between 1827-1859.[8,29] John
Jr listed in 1827 Tithe Applotment Book for Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone,
Ireland.[29] Married unknown. Resided 1827, Castletown townland,
Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[29]

Children of John Graham & unknown:

*

i.

John Graham,[3] probably born between 1795-1800.

1.1.1. John Graham,[3] probably born between 1795-1800. {From DOBs of
children} Died 6/6/1891, Castletown townland, Cappagh parish, Co
Tyrone, Ireland.[3] Farmer, 1856,1859.[10] Was co-executor of the will
of Ann McFarland of Castletown in 1859.[10] Was co-executor of the will
of William McFarland of Castletown in 1859.[10] {William & Ann
McFarland resided block No.7, Castletown, adjacent to John.[8]} In 1860
was leasing Block No.6, Castletown townland, Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone
from John Scott, comprising a house, out-building & land covering
31 acres & 1 rood with an annual rateable valuation of £15 15s for
the land and £1 10s for the house (total £17 5s).[8] Married Miss
McFarland.[3] Resided 1856,1859,1860, Castletown townland, Cappagh
parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[8,10]

Isabella Jane Graham, born
6/10/1876, Castletown townland, Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[3]
{DOB is inconsistent with a sibling born 7 months previously. May have
been a twin of Mary & the DOB given by [3] may be the baptism, else
the year may be incorrect} Presbyterian, literate & single,
1901,1911.[5,38] On 28/9/1912, then a resident at Castletown, was a
signatory of the Ulster Covenant & Declaration at the Mountjoy
Presbyterian Church, James Williamson collecting the signatures.[51]
Resided, 1901,1911, with mother, Castletown townland, Gortgranagh,
Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[5,38] Resided 1912, Castletown
townland, Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[51]

Sproule Graham, born 1840, Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[3] {[3]
gives place of birth as Gortnacrea townland (sic), however only an
approximate DOB is given & the place of birth is likely an
assumption. The earliest confirmed reference to Sproule places him in
Mountjoy. Sproule was the s/o John from his marriage record. There were
only two John Graham's in the region of the right age, John of
Castletown and John Grimes of Gortnarceagh. There is no trace of the
later in 1859, at which time Sproule was still a minor. The Sproule
family came from Drumragh & evidently Sproule was named after a
maternal ancestor} Died 11/1/1908, Ashburton, New Zealand
(68yo).[35,37] "Mr Sproule Graham died suddenly at his residence in
West Belt at 4.45 this morning. The deceased who was well-known and
much respected, has suffered for the last two years from heart disease,
and though not confined to his room during any portion of that period,
he has been unable to work. Yesterday he seemed to be much better than
usual - so much so, that his relatives entertained hopes of great
improvement in his health. He took a walk down the street during the
morning, and retired at about 7 o'clock in the evening. During the
night he enjoyed undisturbed sleep; but, awaking suddenly in the
morning, he shortly after expired from heart failure. The deceased
leaves a widow and a grown up family of three sons and seven daughters.
His age was 69 years, and he had been in the dominion for the last 20
years."[37] Buried 12/1/1908, Ashbarton Cemetery, New Zealand.[37] In
1879 Sproule & his family emigrated to New Zealand on the
"Forfarshire", arriving in Port Chalmers, New Zealand, 17/6/1879.[32]
Sproule & his family travelled in steerage & were assisted
passengers.[32] With Sproule was his wife, Ellen, & children
Katherine, Margaret, Ellen, John, Sarah & Robert.[32] In 1887
Sproule narrowly escaped death after being found comatose from
excessive drinking on a bridge: "Last night a gentleman was driving a
vehicle across the traffic bridge when the horses shied at some object,
which subequently proved to be a man, lying thereon. As the animals
could not be got past, the driver returned into town and informed the
police. A constable proceeded to the scene and found the man - Sproule
Graham by name - lying on tbe bridge in a helpless state of
drunkenness. Graham was brought up at the R.M. Court this morning
[16/2/1887] before Mr D. Thomas, J.P., and fined 10s and costs. The
charge being laid under the Bridge by-laws. It was fortunate for the
man that he was picked up in time, as had a dray or other vehicle
without lights crossed the bridge, it is quite possible that he would
have lost his life."[33] In 1897 Sproule was fined for grazing a cow
along the side of a street in his hown town: "Before Mr C. A. Wray,
S.M. Sproule Graham, for grazing a cow on the North Belt, was fined 5s
and costs."[34] Married Ellen Leitch,[2] 14/6/1866, First Presbyterian
Church, Newtownstewart, Ardstraw parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[3,30] "On
the 14th June, in the First Presbyterian Church, Ardstraw, by the Rev.
Matthew Clarke, M.A., Sproule Graham, Esq., of Mountjoy, Omagh, to
Ellen, fourth daughter of John Leitch, Esq., of Meaghey."[30] {The
reference to Sproule as an Esquire is obviously a fiction since a
decade later he emigrated as an assisted passenger in steerage, not
even having the money to pay for his own passage} Ellen born c.1845,
Meaghy townland, Ardstraw parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland,[3] died 2/6/1918,
Clifton, Sumner district, New Zealand (73yo).[31] Resided 1889,1897,
Ashburton, New Zealand.[34,36] Resided 1908, West Belt, Ashburton, New
Zealand.[34,37]

Robert James Graham, born 22/12/1878, Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone,
Ireland.[3] Emigrated to New Zealand, 1879, with parents.[32]

(h)

Charles Graham, born 1880, New Zealand.[35]

(i)

William Andrew Graham, born 1883, New Zealand.[35]

(j)

Laura Elizabeth Graham, born 1885, New Zealand.[35]

The Graham's of Gortnacreagh were a relatively wealthy family and
of some social standing - more than a few members of this family were
medical doctors and ordained clergy - one of the later made something
of a name for himself on three continents. As a sign of the status of
the family, the death of Mrs Elizabeth Graham in 1873 was published in
the Sydney Morning Herald, the family then living in Dunmore House,
Mountjoy. The publication of Elizabeth's death in a newspaper on the
opposite side of the world implies a position in society of some
significance, especially since no known members of this family
emigrated to Australia, apart from John Graham, uncle of Elizabeth's
husband, who was a priest in Sydney for some decades before returning
to Europe in the 1870s. The Archibald who appears in the 1827 Tithe
Applotment is assumed to be a son of Archibald Sr. Archibald Sr would
have been at least 80yo (likely over 90yo) by 1827, which is less
likely than the existence of Archibald Jr. John did have a son,
Archibald, but he pursued a medical career in the Royal Navy and would
have been unlikely to have been farming in 1827. According to submitted
material in the IGI, Sproule Graham, born c.1840, was a son of John of
Gortnacreagh, which seems unlikely. John Sr would have been around 70yo
at the time and his wife (unless he married more than once) would have
been over 50yo. John Jr was born 1822 & does not appear to have
married (there is no reference to a wife or children in his biography,
written by his brother, Charles).

1.1. John Graham,[29,43] born 1769.[41] Died between 1855-1860.[8,41]
Farmer, 1827,1855.[29] Listed in 1827 Tithe Applotment Book for Cappagh
parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland (as Grimes).[29] "Mr. John Graham, a small
farmer, still living on the Mountjoy Forest estate, in the county of
Tyrone, now in his eightysixth year, informs me the first Lord
Mountjoy, in the year 1798, induced him to join his lordship's
regiment, and to accompany him to Wexford. He was close to his
lordship, at Three Bullet Gate, at the battle of New Ross, when the
king's troops were attacked by a party of rebels, who lay in wait for
them in the ditches on either side of the road, and commenced a heavy
fire, which threw the troops into complete disorder. The general who
was there in command ordered the troops to retreat; and they did
retreat, with the exception of Lord Mountjoy and a few soldiers of his
regiment. Graham saw his lordship fall from his horse mortally wounded,
and when he next saw him he was dead, pierced by several balls and with
many pike-wounds also."[41]

"... a man of great bodily strength
and equal activity, and who scarcely ever had an hour's sickness; for,
apart from a sound constitution, he observed the chief conditions of
health. He retired and rose early, took vigorous exercise in the open
air, and used the plainest food. His intellect was quick rather than
solid; his fancy was vivid, and his memory tenacious. He was fond of
repeating psalms, hymns, proverbs, and anecdotes. Some of his anecdotes
were of a very exciting and thrilling character. He had been in the
most sanguinary battles of the rebellion of 1798. When the rebellion
broke out he was enlisted as a non-commissioned officer in the Dublin
Militia, and promised a commission when a vacancy should occur. This
step he was induced to take by Lord Mountjoy, his grandfather's and
father's landlord. The night before the battle of New Ross he
reconnoitred the rebel camp, and on his report General Johnson put his
troops in order of battle. A battle was fought, General Johnson was
defeated, Lord Mountjoy and nearly half the Dublin Militia, who went
into the engagement a thousand strong, were slain. All the horse were
killed, and the town taken by the rebels. General Johnson did not wish
to survive the defeat, and renewed the battle. The struggle was then
truly for life and death. In that second engagement John Graham was
considered to have slain upwards of forty rebels. He took the colours
of "the Bantry corps," and killed the man that bore them. He was
offered his commission, but preferred returning to his father. His
temperament was sanguine and impulsive, and his temper not always under
due restraint. He was brought up among the Presbyterians; but when his
minister turned Unitarian he left him and attended the services of the
Church of England. But only in his creed was his new minister better
than the old; for he neither knew the gospel nor manifested any
interest in the people. Happily for himself and others John Graham,
sen., following the traditions of his family and the hospitality of his
country, entertained the Methodist preachers, who held services in his
house; and through the gospel which he heard from them there was hope
that he finally received the truth in the love of it."[43]

Married
Miss Jarvey.[43] {According to [43] married soon after returning home
from the battle in 1798} Miss Jarvey born 1788, died 1845 & buried
4/9/1845, parish church graveyard, Cappagh.[43] {According to [43] died
at the same age as her son, John Jr} Suffered from ill health for some
time prior to her death, the last few months in considerable pain.[43]

The
following description was written by her son, John Jr: "In her youth
she had moved in the gayest circle of her native town. Her two sisters
were married to military officers. To the wonder of many, and
displeasure of her mother, she married the young farmer who had
returned from the war {this would have been shortly after 1799}.
Sometimes, when she considered the gayer attire and society of her
sisters, a momentary sigh escaped her. But even comparatively, on fair
review, her lot was not calculated to make her repine; for she lived
longer, and reared a more numerous and more useful family than either
of her sisters. Her portrait can never be effaced from those on whose
hearts it was once impressed by the sunlight of her benignant maternal
look. She was a broad-shouldered, deep-chested, stately woman, and with
advancing years became somewhat corpulent. Of later years pain and
sorrow gave a slightly pensive cast to her pale, refined, intelligent
countenance. But her ample brow was habitually smooth; and though her
bluish-grey eye was sometimes dreamy, it was habitually steady,
penetrating, and clear. She was silent and meditative, and thought more
than she either read or spoke. God used the ploughshare of affliction
to break up the fallow ground of her soul for precious seed. Sorrow had
opened her eyes on a higher heaven and a deeper life. One post brought
word of one sister dead of plague in Jamaica; another, that her other
sister died from bursting a vessel in the lungs. One year saw her
second daughter wither in disease; another witnessed her cries as she
found the golden locks of her youngest daughter floating in the garden
well, where life was irrevocably extinct. Her broken heart turned to
the Saviour for healing, which was not denied, and a mighty faith with
love and meekness grew up within her, and shone around her. Her deep
religious nature received the word of truth and life, and yielded fruit
sixty, if not an hundred fold. There was an ease and beauty and
naturalness about her piety that made you feel it was a stream from a
fountain which flowed because it must. Few, perhaps, ever helped the
poor so liberally on equal means; and very few ever walked closer with
God, or had more of the respect and love of the circle in which they
respectively moved. She was ambitious of mental improvement for
herself, but still more so for her children. She was a patient wife,
and a devoted mother. She loved poetry, and had a full, flexible voice;
and while the honeyed leaves of the great sycamore before the door were
alive with the hum of bees, she would often sit knitting beneath it,
singing hymns."[43]

James
Graham,[2,3,8,43,52] probably born between 1800-1810. Eldest
son.[43] Died 1879.[43] While in Australia james undertook at least one
expedition exploring the then unknown land west of the Blue Mountains
in NSW.[43] James's companion, Duncan Stewart, died of hunger and
exhaustion, while he & James led an "expedition to explore the
territory around the Blue Mountains. After their horses, and dogs,
and men had all died of exhaustion and thirst, and they themselves and
one black man alone remained, James carried Mr. Stewart until he could
proceed no farther. Mr. Stewart then entreated to be left. As he had
pressed my brother to proceed farther than he deemed safe, he asked his
forgiveness, and committed him as well as his own soul to the Lord.
They then embraced each other, and parted to meet no more on earth.
James walked on till he almost reached the nearest water, when he fell
exhausted; but his humane black companion carried water to him until he
revived. He lived to return to his native land."[43] In 1860 was
leasing Block No.2b, Mountjoy Forest West townland, Cappagh parish, Co
Tyrone from John Norris, comprising land covering 5 acres & 2 rood
with an annual rateable valuation of 5s.[8] In 1860 owned (in fee)
Block No.5a, Mountjoy Forest West townland, Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone,
comprising a house, out-buildings & land covering 179 acres & 2
rood with an annual rateable valuation of £69 for the land and £14 for
the house (total £83).[8] In 1860 leased Block No.5b, Mountjoy Forest
West townland, Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone to Martha Browne, comprising a
house with an annual rateable valuation of 10s.[8] In 1860 leased Block
No.5c, Mountjoy Forest West townland, Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone to
Thomas Brown, comprising a house with an annual rateable valuation of
5s.[8] In 1860 leased Block No.5d, Mountjoy Forest West townland,
Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone to James McGorman, comprising a house &
out-buildings with an annual rateable valuation of £1.[8] 'Esquire",
1873.[52] In 1876 owned 179 acres of land, Mountjoy Forest West,
Omagh.[45] Possibly the James Graham who, in 1877, was the treasurer of
the Loan Fund Bank, John Street, Omagh, Drumreagh parish, Co Tyrone,
Ireland.[44] Married Elizabeth Mary Riddell.[2,3] Elizabeth born 1837
& died 4/11/1873, Dunmore House, Mountjoy, Cappagh parish, Co
Tyrone, Ireland (36yo).[52] Resided Australia c.1834-1854.[43] Resided 1860, Mountjoy Forest West
townland, Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[8] Resided 1873, Dunmore
House, Mountjoy, Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[52] Resided 1876,
Mountjoy Forest West townland, Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[45]

William Graham,[40] probably born between 1800-1810. "Mr. Wm. Graham,
of Mountjoy-forest, near Omagh, and member of the Royal College of
Surgeons, of London, has been appointeed [sic] Assistant-Surgeon of his
Majesty's ship Victory."[40]

iii.

Thomas Graham,[42] born before 1815. In 1837 was listed as a subscriber
of Samuel Lewis' "A Topographical Dictionary of Ireland".[42] On
23/12/1844 Thomas Graham of Rash (an early name for Mountjoy) was
listed amongst the 12 highest 'cess payers' (land tax payers) for the
Upper Half-Barony of Strabane (which confusingly was the Southern half
of the barony!).[46] Resided 1837, Mountjoy Forest, Cappagh parish, Co
Tyrone, Ireland.[42]

iv.

Archibald Graham,[43] born before 1820. Died 1870s.[43] Medical
Doctor.[43] Emigrated c.1840 to Philadelphia, Pensylvania, USA, after
practising in his profession as a doctor for some time in Ireland.[43]
Married unknown.

Children:
(a)

James Graham.[43] Medical doctor.[43]

(b)

Archibald Graham.[43]

(c)

Augusta Graham.[43] Unmarried as of 1879.[43]

(d)

Bessie Graham.[43] Unmarried as of 1879.[43]

v.

Charles Graham, born 12/1817, Mountjoy Forest, Cappagh parish, Co
Tyrone, Ireland.[43] Died after 1880.[43] Reverend.[43] Charles was
based in Waterford in the early 1840s, moving to Cork in 1843,
returning to Waterford in the late 1840s & remaining there in the
1850s.[43] Married Anna, before 1847.[43] Resided 1841, Dublin,
Ireland.[43] Resided 1844, Cork, Co Cork, Ireland.[43]

Children:
(a)

son Graham, born before 1846.[43]

(b)

Samuel Graham, born 1846.[43] Died 1855, from inflammation of the lungs.[43]

vi.

John Graham, born 19/5/1822, Mountjoy Forest, Cappagh parish, Co
Tyrone, Ireland.[43] Died 1/8/1879, USA.[43] Died while trying to save
niece from drowning.[43] Reverend.[43] "[On the] day his nephew,
Archibald Graham, joined [John & his nieces]. The beach was crowded
with people, and many were in the water. They selected the place where
there were most bathers. They were in but a few minutes when Gussie,
who was trying to float Uncle John had been teaching her the day before
was caught in a current, and before she was aware of it was carried
beyond her depth. She called to Arch, who was nearest to her. He swam
to her, took her hand, and struck for shore. But although they had only
a few feet to go, the current was so strong that when he reached a
point at which he could just touch the bottom, he was completely
exhausted. Gussie had hold of his hand at their arms' length behind
him. Uncle John, seeing their predicament, swam around them, and took
Gussie's other hand just at the moment Arch was able to touch bottom.
At that moment a large wave submerged and separated them. Arch was
knocked off his feet, but managed to get in far enough for the other
bathers to seize him and drag him ashore, where he lay for some time
insensible. Uncle John, who was a good swimmer, and had been out much
farther the day before, put Gussie's hand on his shoulder and struck
with both arms for the shore; but appearing to make no progress, Gussie
said, 'Uncle John, we cannot both be saved. For God's sake leave me,
and save yourself.' She then let go her hold, but he turned and seized
her by the wrist; but before he could speak he turned blue in the face,
gasped once or twice, and sank back unconscious. She, thinking he had
fainted or taken a fit, threw her arm round his neck and kept his head
above water ... eventually another bather reached them & kept her
uncle's head above water until a boat came to their aid. Although every
effort was made to restore him, he gave no sign of life. He had
evidently met with instantaneous death at the moment he became
unconscious... Dr James Graham later wrote "the post-mortem examination
showed conclusively that [he did not drown]. The powerful effort he
made was the immediate cause of death. His heart was not able to
control the unusual quantity of blood forced upon it. It became
over-distended, and he died in an instant." John had a long history of
heart trouble."[43]

"As a boy he was healthy and vigorous,
remarkable for his sprightliness, drollery, and fondness of play. He
was exceedingly swift of foot, and delighted in running matches. At
school he was considered an apt pupil, but he received little
instruction calculated to develop or train his bright intellect. Up to
near his fourteenth year he was sent from one school to another, but
all were much on a par in their rudimentary character and defective
training. A voracious reader, John spent much of his teens devouring
many books, especially books such as Pilgrims Progress, which would set
the mould for his later years. At seventeen he went to Abbey Hall, a
very high-class school, in Omagh. Subsequently he obtained a tutorship
in classics and mathematics in Foyle College, Londonderry. Few men ever
thirsted more for knowledge, in every department of truth, than he did;
and to the end of life he pursued it with avidity. In 1841 went to live
with his brother, Charles, in Dublin, who was a minister there. There
he continued his educated and began preaching & conducting
services, as the opportunity arose, eventually settling with the
Wesleyans. In 1842 he was appointed to the parish of Kinsale, where he
proved to be quite popular. Throughout this time he suffered severe
bouts of ill health. The following year he was transferred to
Waterford. However in 1844 John's health had deteoriated to such a
state that he was forced to retire and live with his brother, Charles,
in Cork. After recovering, he took up ministry in Cork, with his
brother. In 1845 he was transferred to Donegal Place, Belfast where he
had a successful ministry for 2 years before being transferred to
Charlemont/Moy, on the border of Co Donegal & Co Tyrone, his
circuit covering much of eastern Co Tyrone. In 1848 he had another bout
of his illness. The same year he was again transferred to Belfast. In
1850, after a preaching tour in Scotland, he was transferred to Dublin.
In 1852 John resigned from the Wesleyean church and became a member of
the Congregational church, taking up ministry at Charlemont, where he
had been a few years earlier. The following year he took up a position
at the Congregational chapel on King's Inn Street, Dublin. In 1855 he
took up the ministry of Craven Chapel, London. During his time at
Craven, John frequently went on preaching tours throughout the UK. In
1864 John resigned his ministry at Craven Chapel and moved to Australia
to take up a position in the Congregational chapel in Pitt Street,
Sydney, the principal Congregational in Sydney. In 1876, with the
health of both John & his wife deteoriating, they returned to
England. During his time in Australia John made many missionary tours
throughout the various Australian colonies. In England he took up a
position at the Clifton Road church, Brighton. Throughout his career
John zealously pursued his ministry and whenever he was based saw large
increases in the size of his congregations, with congregations at
Craven Chapel numbering in the thousands. In 1879, whilst the Clifton
Road church was closed for renovations for 10 weeks, John traveled to
the USA to visit the family of his brother, Archibald, who had recently
died."[43]

This family grouping includes some uncertain linkages. Tantramurry
& Tattraconnaghty are adjacent small townlands sandwiched between
Castletown & Gortnacreagh in the north & Mountjoy Forest in the
south. John & Andrew (3rd generation) are without doubt closely
related since they are listed in the same 1840 land lease and their
children are neighbours in 1860. John & Andrew are presumably
grandsons of the William Graham who appears in Tantramurry by 1763
& possibly the William Graham listed in the 1796 Flax List.[28] The
intermediary generation is unknown, but it seems feasible that it is
the Andrew Graham who appears in the 1796 Flax list. The connection of
William of Tattraconnaghty as a 3rd son for Andrew born about 1760 is
less certain, however note that the two townlands border each other and
it would be reasonable for Andrew to have named a son after his father
and William would appear to be the oldest of the three postulated sons.
William first appears in Tattraconnaghty townland, which lies between
Castletown & Mountjoy West townlands. William & his descendants
were Presbyterian & farmed modest sized farms, as with the
Castletown Graham's. As noted elsewhere, the Mountjoy West/Gortnacreagh
Graham's were Methodists and of considerable wealth.

1. William Graham,[39] probably born between 1720-1740. On 5/9/1763
William Graham and others (farmers), entered into a lease for three
lives or 31 years for land in Tantramurry townland, Cappagh parish, Co
Tyrone, Ireland.[39] Married unknown. Probably the William Graham
listed in the 1796 Spinning Wheel Bounty.[28] Resided 1763, Tantramurry
townland, Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[39] Possibly resided
1796, Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[28]

Children of William Graham:

*

i.

Andrew Graham,[28] probably born between 1750-1770.

1.1. Andrew Graham,[28] probably born between 1750-1770. {Adult by 1796
& from DOBs of children} In 1796 was growing at least 1 acre of
flax, listed in the Spinning Wheel Bounty.[28] Married unknown. Resided
1796, Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[28]

Children of Andrew Graham:

*

i.

William Graham,[3] probably born between 1785-1805.

*

ii.

Andrew Graham,[3] probably born between 1795-1805.

iii.

John Graham,[39] probably born between 1780-1820. {Alive 1840 &
from, DOB of presumed son} On 1/2/1840, "Lease for seven years of the
lands of Tantramurry (pending cause in the case of Gardiner v
Blessington) by Roderick Connor, one of the masters of the High Court
of Chancery in Ireland, to John Graham, farmer."[39]

Children:
(a)

James
Graham,[8] probably born between 1800-1840. {Adult & living in
1860} In 1860 was leasing Block No.1, Tantramurry townland, Cappagh
parish, Co Tyrone from Robert Scott, comprising a house, out-buildings
& land covering 19 acres 1 rood & 10 perches with an annual
rateable valuation of £8 for the land and 15 for the house (total £8
15s).[8] Resided 1860, Tantramurry townland, Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone,
Ireland.[8]

Rebecca Graham,[3] probably born between 1823-1825. {Possible daughter,
named after mother} Married James Arthur, 31/12/1841, St Eugene Church
of Ireland, Mountjoy townland, Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[3]
James of Castletown.[3]

1.1.2.
Andrew Graham,[3] probably born between 1795-1805. On 1/2/1840, "Lease
for seven years of the lands of Tantramurry (pending cause in the case
of Gardiner v Blessington) by Roderick Connor, one of the masters of
the High Court of Chancery in Ireland, to Andrew Graham, farmer."[39]
In
1860 was co-leasing with William Graham Block No.2, Tantramurry
townland, Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone from Robert Scott, comprising a
house, out-building & land covering 25 acres 3 rood & 55
perches with an annual rateable valuation of £6 10s for the land
(Andrew's share) and 10s for the house (total £7).[8] Married Miss McMains.[3] Resided 1840,1860, Tantramurry townland, Cappagh parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[8,39]

Francis lived in the south of Cappagh parish, in the town of Omagh.
Included as a sample of the southern Cappagh & Omagh area Graham's,
mostly because this is the only family for which more than 2
generations can be easily assembled. A Thomas Graham, father & son,
were living just south of Omagh from 1827 to at least 1876, listed in
the 1827 tithe applotment book for Galbally townland,[29] Thomas Sr's
widow, Eliza, was living in Galbally townland in 1860,[8] and Thomas
Jr, living in Ballynamallard townland, owned 61 acres of land in
1876.[45]

There were a sizable number of Graham families living in the town
of Strabane, however attempting to chart those families is rather
difficult. None of the Strabane families appears in the 1796 Flax list
and none of the Strabane families of the early to mid 1800s were still
in Strabane by 1911. Like most towns of the time, the population tended
to be more transient than the rural countryside. Strabane is even
further to the north of Ardstraw parish than Evish & Cavanalee
townlands and is even less likely to have any connection with the
Ardstraw Graham's. Strabane borders Co Donegal and many of the Strabane
Graham's likely come from that county.

1. Thomas Graham,[22] probably born between 1780-1790. {From DOBs of
children & wife} Died before 1861. Married Elizabeth.[22] Elizabeth
born 1791 & died 8/7/1865, Ballintra, Co Donegal, Ireland.[22]
"July 8th, at Ballintra [Co Donegal], after a protracted illness,
Elizabeth, relict of the late Mr Thomas Graham, of Strabane, aged 74
years".[22]

Thomas Graham, born 7/3/1833, Camus
parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[3] Died 6/2/1873, Strabane, Camus parish,
Co Tyrone, Ireland.[10] "The Will (with one Codicil) of Thomas Graham
late of Strabane County Tyrone Gentleman deceased who died 6/2/1873 at
same place was proved at Londonderry by the oath of Isabella Graham of
Strabane aforesaid Spinster one of the Executors, 14/3/1873, effects
valued at under £20."[10] Resided 1873, Strabane, Camus parish, Co
Tyrone, Ireland.[10]

(c)

Isabella Graham, born 2/10/1834, Camus
parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[21] Was an executor of her brother's will
(Thomas) in 1873, at the time she was unmarried.[10] Resided 1873,
Strabane, Camus parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[10]

Evish townland borders Cavanalee to the north, however the two are
separated by a river & it is possible there is no connection
between the two families, especially since Alexander, a common forname
amongst the Evish Graham's is absent amongst the Cavanalee Graham's.
This family are listed as Greene's in the 1858 Griffith's Valuations.
It is possible that James is the eldest generation since he appears as
a co-tenant with both Alexander, John & a Thomas Brown (son in
law?), however since a James is listed in the 1858 Griffith's
Valuations, that would imply James Sr had children John, James Jr &
Alexander. There is no further trace of a James Jr so I have gone with
the simpler scenario, although note both are feasible. The Evish
Ghraham's are more likely to have a connection with Leckpatrick, to the
north.

This is an interesting family group - it is one of the very few
Platation Irish families that can be reliably traced back to the
Plantation with some degree of confidence, thanks in a large part to
the Abercorn Estate Papers which allow documentation of this family
from the original planeter up to the 1800s where other sources of
documentation exist. As the oldest known Graham family in the region,
it is temping to speculate that other Graham families in the region may
be offshoots of this family. Lacking any documentation this would be
impossible to prove .. or disprove. This is one area where DNA tests
would prove useful. Forenames in this family in the late 1700s and
early 1800s are similar to those used for the children of my Mary
Graham and a branch of this family settled in a townland near
Newtownstewart, Ardstraw parish, where a branch of Mary's husband's
family also settled. Source [53] includes a rather colourful - and
imaginative - version of the family history, back to the 1200s in
Scotland. Among other things, it claims the family came from Cavanalle,
the family castle in the village of Strabane, built by an exiled
Scottish Laird in the 13th century.

1. John Graham, born about 1560, Scotland.[13] Part of the Ulster
Plantations.[13] John, or his son William, was listed by surname in the
1630 Muster Roll for the Strabane district, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[23]

Francis Graham,[15] probably born between 1697-1710. {Was alive in
1777 (presumably less than 80yo) with at least two adult sons, so born
no later than 1710}

1.1.1.1. Thomas Graham, born c.1689.[13] In 1756 was renting Block
No.2, Cavanalee townland, Camus parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland, covering 44
statute acres of land with an annual rate valuation of £13 13s 10d,
consisting of about 24.75 plantation acres of arable land, 1.25
plantation acres of steep oak bank and 0.5 plantation acres of road,
the description given as "The first distinction is a sharp kindly
ground but very steep, shallow, sandy & gravelly in many places.
The second is precipitious & ought to be inclosed as it occasions
the loss of some cattle to tenants. Houses 4."[23] The land consisted
of 41 acres of arable land which was steep, shallow, sandy &
gravely in many places, plus 2 acres of steep oak bank with no
value.[23] By 1833 much of the land was described as arable with sould
and moderate depth soil and even the steep bank was arable with
pasture, indicating considerable improvement in the almost 80 years
since 1756.[23] Married Elizabeth Wigton.[13] Resided 1756, Cavanalee
townland, Camus parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[13,23]

1.1.1.2. Francis Graham,[15] probably born between 1697-1710. {Was
alive in 1777 (presumably less than 80yo) with at least two adult sons so born no later than 1710} Died between 1777-1787.[23] Alive
1759.[15] Was named as an heir in the will of his son, John, 1759, then
residing in Maryland, USA.[15] In 1777 was renting Block No.7,
Cavanalee townland, Camus parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland, covering 34 acres
of land.[23] Married unkown. Resided 1759,1777, Cavanalee townland,
Camus parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[15,23]

Hugh
Graham,[15] probably born between 1720-1730, Cavanalee townland, Camus
parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[15] {DOB range based on that of his father
& adult by 1759} Alive 1759.[15] In 1759 inherited his brother's
property at Branfield, Queen Anns Co, Maryland, USA.[15] Also executor
of his brother's will, so was presumably residing in Maryland, USA at
the time.[15]

Margaret Weir, born after 1800, Claiborne Co, Tennessee, USA.[53] Married Robert Glenn.[53]

(e)

Matilda Weir.[53]

(f)

Thomas Weir, born c.1800.[53]

(g)

Ann Jane Weir, born c.1808.[53] Married Benjamin Sewell.[53]

ii.

William Graham, born 2/5/1765,[53] Cavanalee townland, Camus
parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[14] Died Claiborne Co, Tennessee, USA.[53]
"William came from Ireland in 1810. He build the stone residence
'Graystone' in Tazewell. He was a soldier for Robert Emmett in the
Irish Rebellion led by Emmet. He died a wealthy man but left no
children & was buried in the Irish Memorial Cemetery, Tazewell,
Claiborne Co, Tennessee, USA."[53] Married Margaret Chamberlain.[53]
Margaret born c.1770, Jefferson Co, Tennessee, USA.[53]

iii.

Andrew Graham, born 1767, Cavanalee townland, Camus parish, Co Tyrone,
Ireland.[14,53] "According to family tradition Andrew served as a
surgeon under Lord Nelson, reportedly removing one of Nelson's eyes.
Andrew's brothers, William and Hugh, were involved in the Rebellion of
1798 and were sentenced to death, but had their sentences reduced to
banishment to the America's."[14] A published death notice for his son,
William (1839), describes Andrew as "the late Andrew Graham, Esq.,
Royal Navy, formerly of Cavanalee, near Strabane."[20] Married Maria
McCarty.[53] Maria emigrated to the USA with her children.[53]

Nancy Ann Graham, born
c.1780, Cavanalee townland, Camus parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[14,53]
Died Tazewell, Claiborne Co, Tennessee, USA.[53] Married Francis
Patterson, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[53] Francis born c.1775, Co Tyrone,
Ireland & died 1844, Tazewell, Claiborne Co, Tennessee, USA.[53]
Both buried in the Irish Memorial Cemetery, Tazewell, Claiborne Co,
Tennessee, USA.[53] "Francis Patterson, Sr. came from Ireland in an
early day and purchased a farm on the main road leading from Tazewell
to Cumberland Gap, 2 1/2 miles this side of the Gap, not far from
Harrogate. His wife was Nancy Graham, a sister to Hugh Graham."[53]

Robert Patterson, born c.1800, Pensylvania, USA.[53] "Robert was a
commanding general of the Federal forces during the Civil War, based in
Philadelphia, PA. He owned much land in Philadelphia and a sugar
plantation near New Orleans."[53] Married Sarah Engle.[53]

(c)

Mary Patterson, born c.1800, Pensylvania, USA.[53] Married William Houston.[53]

Lucy Graham, born 1827, Claiborne Co, Tennessee, USA.[53] Married
James Williams.[53] James born 1825, Nashville, Tennessee, USA &
died Gratz, Austria.[53] "James was Minister to Turkey under President.
Buchanan. James & Lucy went to Paris and were presented at the
Court of Louis Napoleon by Senator Mason of Virginia, then Minister to
France, who afterwards, with Slidell, presented the claims of the
Southern Confederacy to the same court for recognition. In
Constantinople, the American embassy became famous for its southern
hospitality. Mr Williams was a man of large estates in Tennessee, and
Mrs. Williams had been most admirably trained for her position by her
life at "Castle Roche" where her father had insisted on European
etiquette and training for his daughters. During the Civil War, the
Williams' family lived in London, and as no remittances came from the
South, Mr. Williams supported his family by writing for the London
Times and by publishing two books, one on "Slavery" and one on "The
American Citizen". He also edited a paper in the interests of the
Southern Confederacy."[53]

Cornelia Graham, born
1839, Claiborne Co, Tennessee, USA.[53] With parents, 1850.[53] Married
William Houston Patterson.[53] William born 1833, Pensylvania, USA.[53]
"Hugh Graham purchased Cavan-a-Lee, formerly known as the Nenney home,
and gave it to his daughter, Mrs. William Houston Paterson of
Philadelphia."[53] {Presumably this was an estate in the USA and not
the family home back in Co Tyrone, Ireland}

Ellen H. Graham, born 1841, Tazewell, Claiborne Co, Tennessee,
USA.[53] Died 1868, Philadelphia, Pensylvania, USA.[53] With parents,
1850.[53] Ellen was a Union sympathiser during the US Civil War and
after freeing captive prisioners, fled to the north.[53]

(h)

Catherine Graham, born c.1841, Claiborne Co, Tennessee, USA.[53]

(i)

James Graham, born c.1843, Claiborne Co, Tennessee, USA.[53]

(j)

William Graham, born c.1845, Claiborne Co, Tennessee, USA.[53]

(k)

Mary Graham.[53]

1.1.1.2.1. Thomas Graham,[23] born between 1735-1755. {From DOB
range of son & adult by 1777} In 1777 was renting Block No.9,
Cavanalee townland, Camus parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland, covering 52 acres
of land.[23] In 1787 was renting Block No.9, Cavanalee townland, Camus
parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland, with an annual rate valuation of
£10.94.[23] In 1796 was growing between 1-2 acres of flax, receiving
one spinning wheel in the Spinning Wheel Bounty.[17] In 1806 was
renting Block No.2, Cavanalee townland, Camus parish, Co Tyrone,
Ireland, covering 44 acres of land with an annual rate valuation of
£37.50.[23] In 1827 Thomas' land, then with an annual rate valuation of
£8.06 was being rented by Galbraith Lowther, whose father, Thomas
Lowther, was a neighbour of Thomas Graham back to at least 1756.[23]
Married unknown. Resided 1777,1787,1796,1806, Cavanalee townland, Camus
parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[23]

Joseph Graham,[3,21] probably born between 1785-1795. {From DOB of
son. Presumably s/o Lowther given name of his son} Married Jane.[3,21]
{No further record of this family in Camus parish, presumably emigrated}

Children:
(a)

Lowther Graham, born 1806, Camus parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[3,21]

1.1.1.2.1.1. Thomas Graham,[18,21] probably born between 1775-1785.
{From DOBs of children} Listed in 1827 Tithe Applotment Book for Camus
parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland,[18,23] with an annual rate valuation of
£2.29.[23] Thomas' representative was listed in the Hamilton Rent Books
1849/1850, implying he had either left the parish or had recently
died.[19] Married Sarah/Lilly Chisom.[21] Resided 1827, Cavanalee
townland, Camus parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[18,23]

Children of Thomas Graham & Sarah Chisom:

i.

Thomas Graham,[19] probably born between 1795-1805. Listed in 1849/1850
Hamilton Rent Books (as a tenant).[19] In 1854 was member of a
committee set up to organise the presentation of a testimonal to Rev.
Goudy in recognition of his work for the church & the
community.[23] Goudy was Moderator of the Presbyterian Church of
Ireland in 1857.[23] In 1858 was leasing Blocks No.11A&B, Cavanalee
townland, Camus parish, Co Tyrone from Marquis of Abercorn, comprising
a house, out-buildings & land covering 21 acres & 5 perches
with an annual rateable valuation of £8 5s for the land and 10s for the
house (total £8 15s).[8] Married Mary Laughton.[21] {May be a 2nd wife
of Thomas Sr, if so Thomas Jr did not marry & Thomas Sr's DOB would
move forward to about 1790} Resided 1849/1850, Cavanalee townland,
Camus parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland (tenant).[19] Resided 1858, Cavanalee
townland, Camus parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[8]

William Graham,[21] probably born between 1800-1805, Cavanalee
townland, Camus parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[3] {From DOBs of children.
Presumably a son of Thomas, although could be a son of Lowther. Note
however William named his eldest child Thomas, traditionally named
after the paternal grandfather & the 1800s is probably a bit too
recent for Lowther to have still been having children} Married
Elizabeth,[3,21] about 1825.[3] {No trace of this family after the
baptism of Robert in 1849. Not listed in the 1849/1850 Rent Books, nor
in the Griffith's Valuations, so presumably emigrated in 1849 after
Robert's baptism}

James Graham,[21] probably born between 1805-1814. {From DOBs of
children & birth not listed in [21] which appears complete from
1814. In 1848 was a neighbour of James McCrea of Cavanalee. Both Thomas
Sr & his brother, Francis Sr, had properties adjoining James
McCrea. James did not inherit the tenancy from his father so was
evidently not the eldest child. This would preclude Francis Sr as being
his father since Francis married at the end of the James' likely DOB
range (ie: he would have been the eldest son). On the other hand Thomas
Sr had at least two sons born before James' DOB range and so is the
most likely candidate} In 1848 James McCrea entered into an
agreement with James Graham, son of one of McCrea's neighbours, which
in effect assigned the farm to Graham, who would then become the tenant
of the farm and would also provide for the retirement of James McCrea
& his household. McCrea was still occupying the land up to 1860,
presumably when he died, at which time the farm covered 91 acres:
"Indenture 15th June 1848 between James McCrea, Cavanlee and James
graham. Whereas by indenture of the lease of 31st January 1835,
Abercorn to McCrea for the life of James Hamilton Jr, or, 21 years from
1st November 1834 with rent of £61 71s 3.5d [£61.87] yearly. This
indenture witnesseth that the said James McCrea for a consideration of
£29 16s 9d [£26.84] to him in hand paid by James graham, hath made over
to James Graham in his possession his farm of 85 acres 35 perches
[34ha]. James Graham to permit Hames McCrea and his sister Elizabeth
McCrea during their lives to have and to hold and enjoy their sitting
room or parlour in the dwelling house on said farm and two bedrooms now
occupied by them and the use of the kitchen in common with James Graham
together with the use of the furniture and bedding therein and also
sufficient firing for their use and benefit and also supply with one
good milk cow properly grassed and foddered and also supply James &
Elizabeth McCrea ten measures of good eating potatoes and three cwt
[150kg] of good oaten meal each year and yearly during their lives and
shall pay them yearly annuity of £5 each year to be paid 1st November.
James Graham to support and provide nancy Stewart and her illegitimate
daughter by the said James McCrea called Jane McCrea in the manner they
have hitherto provided so long and until they shall be paid by James
Graham the amount of money due and owed to them by James McCrea.[23] In
1873 James sold the lease on his farm (formerly McCrea's), then Block
No.26 covering 34 acres, to Joseph Davis.[23] In 1882 Joseph Davis
aquired the adjacent farm, No.10 (72 acres), formerly tenanted by
William Graham (identity unknown, although there was a William Graham
in neighbouring Elvish townland).[23] Married Sarah.[21]

John Graham, baptised 19/1/1821, Camus parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland
(mother Sally).[3,21] {The evidence that John was the same person who
later appeared in Straletterdallan is speculative, however the DOB
matches and most of the forenames appearing amongst the
Straletterdallan Graham's match those of this branch of the Cavanalee
Graham's} In 1859 was leasing Block No.1a, Straletterdallan townland,
Ardstraw parish, Co Tyrone from James Stewart, comprising a house &
garden covering 1 rood & 10 perches with an annual rateable
valuation of 5s for the land and 5s for the house (total 10s).[8]
Married unknown. Resided 1859, Straletterdallan townland, Ardstraw parish, Co Tyrone,
Ireland.[8]

William Thomas Graham, born 1860, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[5] Farmer,
1901,1911.[5,38] Church of Ireland, literate & single,
1901,1911.[5,38] In 1901 William was farming Blocks No.12 & 15,
which had been run by William & his ancestors as a single farm
since the early 1800s.[23] In 1906 William purchased the freehold of
the combined farm (12 & 15), covering 35 & 19 acres,
respectively, as well as the neighbouring farm on Block No.14 (covering
18 acres), giving a total of 72 acres.[23] By 1947 the farm had been
sold to or inherited by John Lindsay.[23] On 28/9/1912, then a resident
at Cavanalee, was a signatory of the Ulster Covenant & Declaration
at Strabane, Sergeant Keane collecting the signatures.[51] Resided
1901, house No.13, Cavanalee townland, Camus parish, Co Tyrone,
Ireland.[38] Living with William in 1901 was his mother, Matilda,
sisters Mary & Rebecca, and farm servants William Elliott &
William Lyons.[38] Resided 1911, house No.26, Cavanalee townland, Camus
parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[5] Living with William (in 1911) were
sisters Mary & Rebecca, Wiliam Elliot & Mary McDire, servants,
and Hamilton Shaw, a visitor.[5] Resided 1912, Cavanalee townland,
Camus parish, Co Tyrone, Ireland.[51]